There has been plenty to talk about in MLB circles as of late. From the numerous extensions handed to star players around the league to ongoing discussions between the league offices and the MLBPA, the past few months have provided plenty of storylines.
However, one of the more neglected trends has been the unfortunate amount of injuries sustained by players around the league.
In a span of just three days, the Cleveland Indians announced that both of their star infielders–Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez–are doubtful for Opening Day. Ramirez suffered a left knee contusion after fouling a ball off his foot in a Spring Training game against the Chicago White Sox, while Lindor (who was already dealing with a calf strain) sprained his ankle during a workout and will begin the season on the 10-Day Injured List.
Opening Day? Just be ready by May
The Indians are hardly the only club that has been bit by the injury bug. Yankees fans in New York continue to worry over the extent of their ace, Luis Severino, who is ailing from shoulder inflammation and still does not have a timetable for return.
Meanwhile, Aaron Hicks, C.C. Sabathia, and Dellin Betances will join Severino on the Injured List. Betances in particular was giving cause for concern this Spring, with his fastball dipping closer to 90 mph on average. Shortstop Didi Gregorious is also sidelined for at least half the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in October.
Plenty of star pitchers are unlikely to be ready for the first week of play. The Reds had counted on new acquisition Alex Wood to anchor their pitching staff, but he is sidelined until mid-April with soreness in his lower back. The same can be said of Clayton Kershaw–who is also dealing with shoulder inflammation–and fellow Dodgers starter Rich Hill, who has an MCL strain in his left knee. Atlanta Braves ace Mike Foltynewicz will also be out for a few weeks due to right elbow soreness.
In Chicago, much has been made about the Cubs and the ability of their bullpen to survive the absence of Brandon Morrow, who is sidelined until May. Staying in the NL Central, the Brewers' bullpen was dealt a pair of early setbacks when Corey Knebel discovered a slight tear in his UCL and Jeremy Jeffress was placed on the 10-Day Injured List with right shoulder weakness.
Some guys are just downright unlucky
The injuries didn't stop when the 2019 MLB season began last week. Oakland Athletics first baseman Matt Olson fractured his hamate bone after fouling off a pitch during the team's series against the Seattle Mariners in Tokyo. As a result, he had to undergo surgery and will miss an extended period of time in recovery.
One of the most unfortunate stories is that of Steven Souza Jr. After playing in just 72 games in 2018, Souza slipped on home plate during a Spring Training game on March 26, tearing just about every ligament in his left knee. He will undergo season-ending surgery.
Needless to say, most teams are beginning the season banged up in some form or fashion. Of course, injuries are a part of professional sports, but it seems like there have been more injuries than usual.
This could also reflect the increasing level of caution that organizations take with the health of their pitching staff (in particular) and star players.
Regardless, it is frustrating to see that so many players will be unavailable for the first few weeks of the MLB season.
*All player injury updates may be found at MLB.com*
Follow Us
Subscribe